Seven Putnam Schools Gain Reward Status

Seven Putnam County Schools recognized as Reward Schools by the State Department of Education.

Northeast Elementary School one of the seven. Principal Melissa Palk said the award goes to schools that have improved their growth and achievement scores from last year’s TCAP testing. Palk said her school was able to raise achievement scores seven to twelve percent and made at least one year’s growth in both third and fourth grade.

“It’s the first time Northeast has ever gotten this award,” Palk said. “So like I said we’ve been having this target that this is what we’ve wanted to achieve as a staff for, I’ve been a principal there for twelve years, and so this is something we’ve always wanted to achieve and achieving it just feels wonderful.”

Palk said the award is grounds for a huge celebration as both students and teachers have worked extremely hard to earn the title. The other schools recognized in Putnam County include Algood Middle, Burks Elementary, Capshaw Elementary, Cookeville High, Park View Elementary, and Prescott South Elementary.

“We’re going to continue doing the same things but just watching the data and reteaching kids as needed,” Palk said. “And just giving them that motivation letting them know that they can do great things.”

Palk said the school is already using last year’s data to help maintain the newfound high levels of success. Palk said Northeast Elementary’s new status as one of the seven recognized is a win-win for the school and Putnam County as a whole.

“That just shows what a great school system we have in Putnam County,” Palk said. “And great leaders and teachers.”

Palk said her elementary students do not fully understand the success but they know they are being awarded for what they have done. Palk said the staff are making an effort to celebrate students as without students the teachers cannot do their work.

“We’re just so proud of their hard work and all the support we’ve had from their parents and the entire community,” Palk said.